Big Sur, California

Looking for the best running in Big Sur? We've got you covered with the top trails, trips, hiking, backpacking, camping and more around Big Sur. The detailed guides, photos, and reviews are all submitted by the Outbound community.

Top Running Spots in and near Big Sur

  • Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

    Point Lobos South Shore Trail

    4.0
    2.48 mi / 75 ft gain
    Point Lobos South Shore Trail is an out-and-back trail where you may see wildflowers located near Carmel, California.
    Read more
  • Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

    Cypress Grove Trail via South Shore Trail

    5.0
    1.72 mi / 121 ft gain
    Cypress Grove Trail via South Shore Trail is a family-friendly loop hiking trail located near Carmel-by-the-Sea, California. Along this hike in Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, you'll get a chance to see beautiful coastal views with rugged cliffs, views across Monterey Bay, and Cypress trees as...
    Read more
  • Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

    Inspiration Point

    5.0
    3.75 mi / 650 ft gain
    This magnificent trail was recently converted into part of the Monterey Regional Parks System. Walk through pastures of cows, through coast oaks, up a steep incline with vast views of Carmel Valley, Carmel and the Pacific Ocean up to the top where a picnic table awaits you at Inspiration Point.  ...
    Read more
  • Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

    Hike along the Carmel River Beach Trail

    4.0
    1 mi / 100 ft gain
    Known as "Ribera Beach" by locals, this stretch of land nestled between Carmel River State Beach and Monastery Beach is not to be missed! The trails are easy to get to and can be accessed by 4 locations. The first entrance is on Highway 1 at the Bay School (between Ribera Road and Monastery Beach...
    Read more
  • Salinas, California

    East Ridge & Cougar Ridge Loop

    5.74 mi / 1483 ft gain
    Just a short drive from downtown Monterey you will find yourself amongst the rugged yet serene hills of Toro Park. For a day-use admission fee ($) you will have access to 20+ miles of trails that climb through canyons and run along ridgelines to peaks with views of the ocean in the distance. Whi...
    Read more
  • Pacific Grove, California

    Spanish Bay Trail

    5.0
    2.9 mi / 108 ft gain
    The Spanish Bay Trail in California is an easy, 2.9-mile coastal path near Pebble Beach, ideal for all skill levels. This scenic trail runs alongside the Pacific Ocean, offering stunning views of the rocky shoreline, sandy dunes, and diverse wildlife.  Dog-friendly and accessible year-round, i...
    Read more
  • Big Sur, California

    Kirk Creek Campground

    4.7
    Campsite:There is nothing quite like driving or biking along US-1, the Pacific Coast Highway. Make sure you get a chance to do the drive during the day so that you can see all that Big Sur has to offer. Be careful when pulling off especially onto the shoulder and never stop on a curve in the road...
    Read more
  • Big Sur, California

    Vicente Flat Trail via Kirk Creek Campground

    10.12 mi / 3307 ft gain
    The Vicente Flat Trail is well kept and wide, with many campsites at the end. This trail is very close to Cone Peak, and is used for mountain biking, trail running, birding, and nature trips.  The turnaround point for this out-and-back trail is once you reach the junction with Vicente Flat Trial...
    Read more
  • Marina, California

    Fort Ord Dunes State Park

    5.0
    3.08 mi / 141 ft gain
    One of the best parts of Monterey is the beaches – but their popularity is also their weakness, so if you want seclusion head to the lesser-known Fort Ord Dunes for solitude and beautiful views of Monterey Bay and the Pacific Coast. Historically, this location was chosen as the location for Fort...
    Read more
  • Paicines, California

    Hike to Bear Gulch Reservoir in Pinnacles National Park

    3.5
    1.5 mi / 275 ft gain
    Start the hike from the Bear Gulch Trail Parking lot.  While pulling in, the trail head is on the left.  The Trail is marked Reservoir, Caves, and High Peaks.  Continue down the trail until faced with a junction.  Make sure to admire rock formations while hiking!At the junction take the Bear Gulc...
    Read more